It's not just the itchy eyes and scratchy throat that can make allergies miserable - fatigue is a common symptom, too. Research has shown that people with allergies are more likely to report feelings of tiredness than those without allergies. So why do allergies make you feel so exhausted?
There are a few different ways that allergies can lead to fatigue. First, when your body fights an allergic reaction, it releases histamines and other chemicals into your bloodstream, and these chemicals can cause drowsiness and make you feel tired. Additionally, if you're not getting enough quality sleep at night because of your allergy symptoms (such as sneezing and coughing), this can also lead to fatigue during the day. This article will dive into what allergies are, what triggers allergies, and how to prepare your body before the season for allergies hits.
What are Allergies?
Allergies are your body's reaction to a foreign substance called an allergen. Hypersensitivity reactions from your immune system can be triggered by inhaling, ingesting or touching certain allergens, such as pollen, dust or pet dander. There are many different types of allergies. Now that we know what an allergy will do to your body, we can look at the different types.
Seasonal Allergies.
Seasonal allergies derive from the weather changing and pollinators coming to life. Typical allergies during this time cause the body to react to its invader like it is a common cold. So, you will see symptoms like headache, runny nose, sneezing, and itching.
An allergic response to things like dust, pollen, or even pet dander releases something in your body called cytokines, which causes inflammation in your sinuses and respiratory tract. Longstanding allergies can lead to chronic inflammation, which doesn't go away on its own and has also been linked to fatigue and depression.
One way to combat these types of allergies is to prepare your body before the season changes. Some holistic ways to fight common allergy triggers include:
- Acupuncture
- Local honey 1 to 2 tsp daily
- Nutrients to help support your immune system like Vitamins C and D, zinc and quercetin. Use a neti pot to clear sinuses
Food Allergies.
Food allergies, like seasonal allergies, are an immune response that your body conducts. The difference between the two allergies is that one is caused by touch or inhalation, and the other is caused by consumption.
After consuming food you are allergic to, it can cause symptoms such as hives, swelling, and digestive problems. This can be more serious than seasonal allergies because your airways are threatened, and allergic reactions like this should be monitored carefully.
Allergy Symptoms.
Allergy symptoms can vary from moderate to serious depending on how your body responds. For instance, if you are taking precautions and prepping your body for seasonal allergies, you may be less affected than someone doing nothing to prepare your body.
Common symptoms to expect during allergy season are as follows: runny nose, brain fog, itchy eyes, and poor sleep quality. Serious fatigue and body aches are rather common to endure during the spring and fall seasons. Things like pet dander and dust mites also can cause allergies and make you tired.
Most people don't expect fatigue due to allergies, but this is another common thing. Sleep apnea is less common but still occurs, especially if you have nasal congestion. If you feel tired, that is to be expected. If one doesn't take proper care of their allergies, it can become a sinus infection. Ensure you take the proper precautions when allergy season is on the horizon.
Allergy medications.
Now, let's dive into allergy medications. Which ones are the ones to use, and how well do they work? First, we would like to note that medication can be a way to prevent allergy symptoms from occurring, but even before that, there are ways to prevent allergies altogether.
Some common over-the-counter medications are antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Xyxal, Claritin and Allegra. Some of these medications can make you drowsy, so they can be helpful to take at bedtime. Allergy medications only eliminate the most common symptoms that allergies bring on like a stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, or trouble sleeping. These all can be uncomfortable symptoms, and allergy medication can make them feel better in a short period.
Other allergy medications that you should consider are herbal or environmental medicines. Some certain nettles and teas can help allergy symptoms. Stinging nettle, like Urtica, are great for acute attacks and hay fever. Additionally, Eyebright is commonly used for itchy eyes and nasal congestion.
Allergy shots.
Allergy shots are another form of allergy treatment. They try to dampen down your body’s reaction to things you’re allergic to. Something to consider before you get an allergy shot is that you can still experience redness and swelling from the injection. There is even a chance that it can increase your allergy symptoms. The most common ones are a runny nose, watery eyes, and other symptoms. In some cases, allergy shots can make you tired.
What is an Allergic Reaction?
An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system overreacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods. Allergies can cause various symptoms, including congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and fatigue. Treating allergies can be tricky, but there are a few things you can do to ease your symptoms and get some relief.
What are allergy triggers?
Allergies can be caused by various things, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and certain foods. Allergy sufferers may experience sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. In some cases, allergies can also cause fatigue.
There are a few different theories about why allergies can make you tired. One is that when your body is fighting off an allergic reaction, it takes up a lot of energy, and this can leave you feeling exhausted. Some allergy medications can cause drowsiness as a side effect. Finally, it's possible that allergies can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to fatigue during the day.
How to Prevent allergy symptoms.
The first step to treating allergies is identifying what you’re allergic to. Once you know your triggers, you can start avoiding them. However, avoiding your triggers isn’t always possible. That’s where the second step comes in: treating your symptoms.
There are several ways to do this, but some of the most effective natural methods are listed below. These methods strengthen your immune system to fight off the allergens that cause reactions.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for a strong immune system. When you don't get enough rest, your body can't produce the antibodies it needs to fight infection and disease.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps your body to function at its best. A diet rich in antioxidants can also help to reduce inflammation.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise has many benefits for the immune system, and it helps to increase the circulation of antibodies and white blood cells, which fight off infection.
- Reduce stress: Stress can weaken the immune system. Try to find ways to relax and manage stress effectively. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing are all great ways to reduce stress.
Please note any treatment approaches mentioned are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Following these steps can help you avoid or minimize allergy symptoms. However, if you have an allergic reaction, you can do a few things to ease your symptoms.
- Take an antihistamine: Antihistamines can help to reduce swelling, itching, and redness.
- Apply a cold compress: A cold compress can help to soothe itchiness and inflammation.
- Rinse your nose with saline water: Saline water can help to flush out allergens and relieve congestion.
By following these steps, you can minimize the impact of allergies on your life. Allergies don't have to ruin your day or make you feel exhausted. With some knowledge and preparation, you can take control of your allergies and live a happy, healthy life.
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Key Takeaways on Allergies and Tiredness.
Can allergies make you tired? As you can see from this article, the answer is yes; they can. However, there is a lot you can do to prepare so your allergies don't cause you to lose sleep or get overly fatigued. You can even undergo allergy testing to see if there are additional things to help you with overwhelming symptoms. Seek some professional medical advice and prevent fatigue due to allergies.
